Macrophages: Contribution to Diseases Development and Progression

Macrophages are versatile cells. They are derived from CD34+ bone marrow progenitors. Macrophages act as the first line of defence in the body against bacterial and viral infection. They also accumulate in acute and chronic inflammation and have an important role in healing and repair process. Studies have also indicated that macrophages participate in the development and progress of chronic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis. Many studies have suggested that macrophages play an important role in tumour cell invasion, growth, proliferation, and metastasis to distant organs. This review will summarise the role of macrophages in certain benign diseases. We also discuss the role of macrophages in tumour growth, progression and metastases.